Archive

Why do cats love catnip? or why your cat loves to play around with catnip? or why they feel heightened when playing with catnip or strongly react to catnip? Definitely, you can watch some of the interesting feline antics when they are playing with the catnip.

Why Do Cats Go Crazy For Catnip?

Let us first find out what is catnip?

Catnip – scientifically known as Nepeta Cataria, is one of the 250 species of mint and has a leafy green appearance. The active oil – Nepetalactone in the herb can turn even the laziest bug into the most active furball. However, studies state that Catnip sensitivity is hereditary as an estimated 50 % of cats have no reaction. Moreover, cats do not react to catnip until they are between three to six months old.

Smelling or Eating Affects the Cat Most

With smelling, the most intense catnip experience starts thus it all begins with the nose. When your cat sniffs or whiff of the stuff, she definitely goes nuts. Research work also states that the main effect of catnip is on feline happy receptors in the brain. However, when eaten, it has opposite effect and your cat mellows out.

Not only on house cats, but catnip has effects on wild cats too. Lions, tigers, leopards also can react similarly to house cats when exposed to catnip.

If you are thinking that catnip is especially useful only for cats, then move on further to read. Catnip has the rich history for use in humans too as medicines. When consumed as an infusion or tea, it has a calming effect with a few health benefits. Humans have also used it from time to time to treat headache, nausea and toothaches.
Thus, catnip isn’t just for cats. With the sedative effects on humans, it is beneficial for both humans and felines.

How to keep it fresh?

Catnip does lose its potency over time, so to keep it fresh and long lasting, store it in the freezer in the airtight container.

With of its active beneficial effects, catnip is highly useful for felines that are far lazier or lack interest in playing with anything. Cat owners can bring catnip toys or catnip chewy sticks for cats to play and enjoy the activity stimulating their mental as well as physical well-being. Moreover, you can also find some of the branded and renowned cat health supplies products to boost the energy and health level of your felines. Browse the variety of other pet health and pet supplies options to protect her from parasites and maintain fitness of your cat for longer span.